Floor tiles that mimic the look of wood might be an innovation that is right up your alley. They are quite convincing. Here is everything you need to know before you pull up your existing floor.
First, these new product lines are continuously growing and offer quite a range of sizes and wood species reproductions. You can find tiles that imitate the appearance of not only hardwood flooring, but of exotic woods and time-worn barn boards as well. There is a tile for every room in your home!
The Advantages :
They’re Durable
The main advantage of faux-wood tiles is they near indestructibility when compared to wood, which is easily scratched. It’s therefore an interesting option for high-traffic areas and if you have pets.
They’re Water-Resistant
Tiles are also highly water-resistant and can be installed in rooms where there is a lot of splashing and humidity, like the kitchen or bathroom. If you would like to give these rooms the warmth of wood, a ceramic-made imitation is a great option!
They’re Easy to Maintain
Imitation wood tiles are simple to clean: no more worries about a product potentially ruining the surface. They will likewise never need to be sanded or varnished, which is not true of wood floors.
They Will Always Look Great
With tiles, what you buy in the store is exactly what you get at home, and they will maintain the same appearance forever. Wood’s colour can be affected by the stain and type of varnished used, not to mention sun exposure over time.
The Disadvantages :
They’re Hard
Ceramic and porcelain are hard materials and are a lot less forgiving on joints than wood. Walking around on hard tiles for long periods of time can lead to leg and back pain.
They’re Cold
Tiles are a lot colder underfoot than wood (even though they may look exactly the same). This can be uncomfortable, especially in winter; however, this issue can be easily resolved with underfloor heating.
They’re Heavy
If you want to have wood planks installed on a wall’s surface, be aware that imitation wood tiles are probably not an appropriate substitute: they are very heavy! If you still decide to go ahead, check that your room’s structure is strong enough to support the tiles’ weight.
There Is a Limited Choice of Models
There are far more wood flooring models out there than imitation wood tile models. Plus, there is little grain and colour variation for tiles. If installed in a large room, the faux wood pattern repetitions will be more obvious, while in the case of hardwood, you can play with an almost infinite assortment of stains and combinations.
The Cost
When it comes to comparing the cost of imitation wood tiles and natural wood planks, many factors can influence the price. You can expect hardwood flooring to be less expensive up front, but it will be more expensive to maintain in the long run as it will eventually need to be sanded or revarnished. The most affordable option between all remains floating wood floors.
Whether you decide on imitation wood tiles or real wood floors, be assured that they are both a great way to add warmth and sophistication to any space. We’re sure you’ll make the right choice!